The 23rd International Congress and Exhibition of the African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA) officially drew to a close on February 12, 2026, at the Yaounde Conference Center, Cameroon. Presided over by Cameroon’s Minister of Water and Energy, Gaston Eloundou Essomba, the closing ceremony marked the end of several days of high-level strategic dialogue aimed at securing the continent’s water future. The event was a truly continental affair, featuring a virtual address from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and a keynote speech from Chadian Minister Marcelin Passalé Kanabé, who urged African nations to pool their resources and experiences to overcome shared hydraulic challenges.
Central to the congress’s conclusions was the theme “Water and Sanitation for All: Decisive Actions for Africa,” which shifted the focus from diagnostic discussions to structured implementation. Several key priorities were outlined by Minister Eloundou Essomba, amongst which the urgent need to protect water sources from climate-related pressures and the modernization of existing infrastructure. A major emphasis was made on digitalization and the reduction of non-revenue water (losses) to boost the operational performance of utility providers across the continent.
A significant shift in perspective at this year’s summit was the elevation of sanitation to a core development pillar. Participants advocated for integrated solutions that incorporate the circular economy, focusing on waste recovery and the transformation of sludge into valuable resources. This inclusive approach was further enriched by the active participation of local authorities, financial partners, and dedicated forums for women and young professionals, all of whom were recognized as essential drivers for the long-term sustainability of water projects.
The final outcome of the gathering was the adoption of the “Yaoundé Declaration,” a strategic roadmap designed to guide the sector’s policy for the coming years. This framework calls for heightened political commitment, transparent governance, and the creation of financially viable operators capable of attracting investments. By establishing financing mechanisms specifically tailored to African economic realities, the declaration aims to bridge the funding gap that has historically hindered the expansion of universal water access.
In a symbolic gesture of continental continuity, the ceremony concluded with the “passing of the torch” to Senegal, which is set to host the next biennial congress in 2028. As the delegates prepared to return to their respective countries, Minister Eloundou Essomba issued a final appeal to ensure that the commitments made in Yaoundé are translated into bold public policies and tangible services. With the successful conclusion of the 2026 congress, Yaoundé has established a new benchmark for African cooperation, positioning the continent to move decisively toward water sovereignty and improved public health.
By Louisa Kinyuy
